Veteran Tamil composer Deva dies at 75

Veteran Tamil music composer and singer Devanesan Chokkalingam, popularly known as Deva, died in Chennai on Saturday (October 17) at the age of 75, leaving behind a musical legacy spanning nearly four decades and more than 400 films.

Known as ‘Thenisai Thendral’, Deva played a significant role in bringing Chennai’s distinctive gaana music tradition into mainstream Tamil cinema.

Born on November 20, 1950, Deva trained in piano under Dhanraj Master, who also taught renowned composer Ilaiyaraaja. He also studied Indian classical music on the harmonium under J B Krishna.

His brothers, Sabesh and Murali, who worked as instrumentalists with prominent music directors, helped introduce him to the film industry.

Deva made his debut as a Tamil film composer with 'Mattukkara Mannaru' in 1986. He later gained recognition through films such as 'Manasukketha Maharasa' and 'Vaigasi Poranthachu'.